XTotal Pay combines base annual salary or hourly wage, bonuses, profit sharing, tips, commissions, overtime pay and other forms of cash earnings, as applicable for this job. It does not include equity (stock) compensation, cash value of retirement benefits, or the value of other non-cash benefits (e.g. healthcare).

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$83,052 - $151,707

Country: United States

Currency: USD

Updated: 12 Jan 2019

Individuals Reporting: 16

Job Description for Locomotive Engineer

A locomotive engineer is in charge of safely and efficiently operating a the locomotive car, which provides the forward motion, speed and steering control for the entire train. Locomotives are typically associated with freight trains that operate across older non-electric, non-magnetic rail lines, although many passenger lines in the United States still use locomotive cars. The engineer essentially drives the train from the locomotive, helping ensure that controls for speed and braking are properly applied and that the the train is properly switched from track to track as necessary. Because trains operate on tracks, the engineer's steering is typically related to speed control and awareness of how the train's weight and mass affect its momentum.

Throughout freight trips, the engineer monitors the locomotive's performance and engine through gauges and readouts, watching for potential problems such as overheating or underperformance. Most train routes have suggested safe speed maximums and/or minimums, and it is the engineer's job to ensure that the train is within those limits. The engineer also makes sure their train operates within a set schedule and monitors fuel use. They maintain contact with controllers at stations along their route to ensure the train is properly switched from track to track as necessary. Additionally, the locomotive engineer regularly performs internal and external inspections of the locomotive and the train in general to make sure that wheels, couplings and truck suspensions are sound and in good working order.

To work as a locomotive engineer, a person typically has relevant education from a trade schools or technical college. Additionally, experience as an assistant or conductor on trains may be needed. Most engineers work long shifts, typically traveling between destinations. A typical schedule has them working many days consecutively followed by multiple days off. (Copyright 2019 PayScale.com)

Locomotive Engineer Tasks

Work with conductors and groundsmen via radio to communicate information concerning schedules, stops, delays, or oncoming trains.